On March 18, 2025, Rashid Abdullah Al-Qasir, the Deputy Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Office in Dubai, formally handed over the consular credentials to Sarah Mooney, the newly appointed Consul General of the United Kingdom for Dubai and the Northern Emirates. The ceremony took place at the Ministry's office and provided an opportunity for Al-Qasir to welcome Mooney, emphasizing the productive and historic bilateral relations between the UAE and the UK. “I wish her success in her new duties,” Al-Qasir remarked, highlighting the importance of this appointment for reinforcing diplomatic ties.
Concurrent to this diplomatic exchange, significant discussions unfolded between high-ranking officials from Egypt and the UK. Dr. Badr Abdel-Aaty, Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Yasmin Qureshi, the UK Parliament member and the British Trade Envoy for Egypt, to bolster trade and investment collaborations. During their meeting, held on the same day, Abdel-Aaty provided insights on the economic ties between the two nations, noting, “The volume of trade exchange between the two countries is close to 5 billion pounds sterling.” This figure underlines the potential for enhancing economic partnerships as both nations look to tap greater opportunities.
Abdel-Aaty expressed optimism about future collaborative efforts, particularly building on previously signed agreements, like the Egyptian-British partnership signed off on back in December 2020. This commitment to expand mutual interests and to address any outstanding issues culminates from outcomes of the Egyptian-British partnership council convening earlier this year.
Meanwhile, the focus on humanitarian efforts was reiterated through Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar’s meeting with Qureshi, which emphasized the commitment of Egypt to provide medical assistance to Gaza. Held at the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population located in the New Administrative Capital, the meeting featured discussions around Egypt's extensive efforts to offer medical aid and relief to the injured Militant fighting scenarios, which started back in October 2023.
Abdel Ghaffar reinforced Egypt’s dedication, stating, “We are committed to humanitarian principles... providing medical support... to Gaza.” He highlighted the tangible assistance being rendered, from treating injured Palestinians at Egyptian hospitals to sending immediate medical aid convoys to bolster the healthcare systems affected by conflict.
Dr. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, the spokesperson for the Ministry, articulated the strategic plans set out by Egypt to rebuild Gaza's healthcare sector. The initiatives initiated since October have focused on responding to the immediate needs such as medical examinations and vaccinations for children. He elaborated on the readiness of 150 ambulances on the borders, showcasing Egypt's operational capacities to facilitate urgent medical care.
Part of the dialogue also turned to the role of international organizations, including the World Health Organization and UNICEF, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the response to health crises. The meeting considered leveraging British experiences, particularly those involving innovations for treating conditions such as cancers and diabetes.
Highlighting the positive momentum surrounding UK-Egypt relations, Qureshi expressed her appreciation for Egypt’s proactive stance toward Palestinians, noting, "I deeply appreciate Egypt's efforts to support Palestine." This mutual respect continues to serve as the foundation for broader cooperation, including potential partnerships between British firms, such as AstraZeneca, and Egyptian authorities to advance healthcare advancements.
British Ambassador Gareth Bayley also took part and recognized Egypt's pivotal role, inviting Abdel Ghaffar to the upcoming meeting of the British Egyptian Business Association (BEBA), scheduled for May. He praised Egyptian initiatives and expressed hope for continued collaboration focusing on health, trade, and humanitarian grounds.
Through these various engagements, both nations underline the importance of their relationship, not just for addressing current challenges but also for fostering long-term mutual benefits. The engagement signifies not merely diplomatic formalities but tangible steps toward enhancing the future for both Egypt and the UK.
